Héctor Vinicio Rojas found deceased in Quito

Héctor Vinicio Rojas Velasco, an official at the General Directorate of Civil Aviation (DGAC), was reported missing on Friday, July 24, 2026. Authorities confirmed his death on Monday, July 27, 2026, following an extensive search.

Family members confirmed Rojas's passing on Monday. The 56-year-old official had been actively sought since Friday afternoon after all traces of him disappeared following his departure from his workplace. His last known location was at the intersection of 10 de Agosto and Buenos Aires avenues in downtown Quito. While his death is confirmed, authorities have not yet provided specific details regarding the exact causes.

Rojas's disappearance prompted a large-scale search by his family and friends, who scoured various parts of the capital over the weekend. They visited hospitals, police community units, shelters, and forensic centers. A public awareness campaign was launched, with posters bearing his photograph displayed in key locations such as bus stops, shops, restaurants, and bakeries in the city center.

Before the confirmation of his death, efforts focused on reconstructing Rojas's movements using security camera footage. His brother, Juan Carlos Rojas, reported that various videos were analyzed, establishing a timeline after Rojas left his offices in San Blas around 4:45 PM on Friday. Footage showed him walking on Juan Salinas street and passing by Notary 34, where a minor collision with a pedestrian occurred. Other recordings placed him near the Provincial Council building around 5:45 PM. A neighbor reported seeing him sitting in La Basílica park in the Colonial Quarter, appearing disoriented.

The Attorney General's Office activated search protocols with an official alert after the disappearance was reported. The National Police assisted in analyzing the last known technical location of Rojas's cell phone. The Ministry of the Interior kept the missing person alert active throughout the weekend, urging the public to provide information. Despite the combined efforts of family and authorities, the case concluded with the discovery of his body on Monday.